Here is a quick glimpse at the place I call home:
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,066 people, 1,129 households, and 788 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,215.2 people per square mile (469.8/km²). There were 1,253 housing units at an average density of 496.6/sq mi (192.0/km²). The racial makeup of the town was 42.24% White, 56.78% African American, 0.07% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 0.36% from other races, and 0.46% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.98% of the population.
There we
re 1,129 households out of which 32.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.5% were married couples living together, 24.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.2% were non-families. 27.3% of all households were made up of individuals and 15.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 3.10.
re 1,129 households out of which 32.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.5% were married couples living together, 24.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.2% were non-families. 27.3% of all households were made up of individuals and 15.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 3.10.In the town the population was spread out with 26.7% under the age of 18, 10.2% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 18.4% from 45 to 64, and 18.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females there were 80.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 76.0 males.
The median income for a household in the town was $21,763, and the median income for a family was $25,651. Males had a median income of $25,054 versus $12,837 for females. The per capita income for the town was $11,161. About 26.2% of families and 31.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 45.7% of those under age 18 and 21.8% of those age 65 or over.
The largest challenge we have in this town is ourselves. In the past three years I have seen a few businesses come and go. The stats show us why...more than 25% of the people living in this town are surviving on incomes below the poverty line. Growing up in an area much different than this, it is hard for me to understand why people idolize those in this town who "do well". In fact, according to these statistics, my family and I are fortunate to live much above the means of the majority in this town.
The stats put my life into perspective. It makes me look back and realize that we do have it quite well. I am able to provide on one income, what most households aren't making on two. Our children are forever wanting more...but, perhaps in the future they will see how well they have it compared to most and that life isn't all that bad. These stats also make me very grateful for my employment and being able to do what I am passionate about. Sure, I am at a disadvantage with my physical limitations and I know that there are opportunities I may never have. But, what I do have is what I have worked very hard to achieve.
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